FICO scores, commonly called credit scores, are a statistical gauge of an individual's ability to repay a loan. Your credit score is a key consideration in any loan process. It is the primary factor lenders use to determine how much they will loan a borrower and the interest rate. In [...]
When purchasing a home, buyers are responsible for paying closing costs and prepaids. The difference between the two can often be confusing, especially since they are paid when closing on a home purchase. Here’s what you need to know so you’re prepared for closing day. Closing Costs vs. Prepaids: What’s [...]
Most buyers, particularly first-timers, will probably borrow money to purchase a home or other real estate property. The process consists of working with a lender to qualify for a home loan at a specific interest rate for a set amount of time. The homeowner is then responsible for making regular [...]
Unless homebuyers pay cash for the total price of a home, they are likely to borrow at least some of the money needed to make the purchase. Banks, mortgage companies, and other lenders offer a broad array of secured loans, known as mortgages, to help buyers realize their dream. A [...]
Soon after signing mortgage loan documents that lock in a 15- or 30-year debt, homeowners dream about paying off the debt early to get rid of the monthly burden. But, even if you could pay the mortgage off early, is it a good idea? When Considering Paying Off a Mortgage [...]
A pre-approval letter is a document from a lender based on certain assumptions, stating the maximum the lender is willing to lend to purchase a home. When applying for a mortgage pre-approval, the lender typically requires information about your credit, employment, income, debts, and assets to determine your creditworthiness. Documents [...]
As you prepare to purchase a new home, you'll hear the terms "pre-qualified" and "pre-approved." These are key steps in the mortgage application process. However, there are important differences in the two terms that every homebuyer needs to understand. Briefly, being pre-qualified is a first step in the mortgage process [...]
U.S. mortgage rates are well below 3%. When rates are this low, refinancing becomes a desirable option for many homeowners. Lowering monthly payments and saving on long-term interest makes financial sense for many borrowers. However, there are several scenarios where paying extra toward your mortgage is preferable. For example, many [...]
